Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

What a great show! Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story and the hit West End and Broadway musical, the show blends classic songs from the 1970s film and newer numbers from Hairspray. Under the direction of Paul Madeley and Sian Bowles-Bevan, with musical direction by Tom Chippendale, produced a really professional show.

The visual landscape of this show was very good. Superb sets, where the stage was not overcrowded with props, furniture etc., were all beautifully crafted. The Bucket’s home was particularly impressive and really conveyed that sense of poverty but endless love. The inside of the factory was almost mystical, and so very colourful. Excellent Stage-management was provided by Elaine Griffin and Michelle Spence; they ensured the very smooth and efficient running of props and furniture, etc. on and off the stage. All aided by an impressive back-stage crew, all of whom kept the pace with slick, well thought-out scenery changes.

Mags Wrightson led the wardrobe team which produced amazing costumes, from Willy Wonka’s purple shining coat to Mrs Bucket’s’s apron. There was a large cast and the chorus had several costume changes but all of them looked fabulous. The Oompa-Loompa’s were fantastically dressed throughout. Several of them appeared periodically in the balconies of the theatre which was great fun. The costumes helped define each character and added to the visual story telling. Ably supported with wigs, hair and make-up designed by Louise Ellard-Turnbull and her team. Everything blended together and added to the overall success of this musical.

The cast were superb. Expertly chosen and very well rehearsed they worked well together, all of them allowing stage space for each other.

Willy Wonka, the eccentric owner of the world's largest candy factory, was brought to life by Nick Moorhead. His performance was a mixture of the whimsical and the magical. He was full of energy and enthusiasm, and utterly charming,

Charlie (shared this week between Dylan Chohan and Anthony Eckley-Majercak) was portrayed with sincerity, underpinning the story-telling throughout as a kind-hearted boy who lives in poverty with his mother, father, and his four grandparents. It was so easy to follow and feel part of Charlie’s story. Willy and Charlie created a believable and strong relationship on stage.

Mrs Bucket and the Grandparents were all exceptionally good. Wonderfully played by Nigel Cole, Deb McDowell, Faye Brann, Steve Taylor and Tash Wills as Charlie’s mother. They presented the moral heart of the narrative. Despite living in poverty, they were defined by their loyalty, kindness and self-sacrifice. They were at times delightful, sympathetic, and very much part of the overall success.

There were also great performances from all the ticket winners and their parents, each played with confidence and believable relationships:

• Anna Gold’s a spoiled, demanding girl Veruca, and her father Mr Salt (Chris Warden)
• Matthew Madeley’s greedy, German boy Augustus, and his Mother (Louise Ellard-Turnbull)
• Rebecca Nardin as Violet, a gum-chewing champion, and her father (Christopher Bryan)
• Jay Shore as TV-mad Mike Teavee and his mother (Emma Playle).

The supporting cast, of which there were many, were all well-observed and added to the energy and comedy of the production, making each scene a delight.

In closing I would like thank all of those involved for such an enriching and heart-warming experience that was loved by big kids of all ages.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.